From the forests of Central and South America. These fast-growing, vining shrubs have drooping, tubu- lar or trumpet-shaped flowers in clusters of up to 20 near ends of branches. Blooms from early spring through fallor year-round in frost- free areas. Leaves 58 inches long, 13 inches wide. Fruit is pulpy berries.

Lax growth is best staked up, espaliered, or draped over a fence or wall. Prune selectively to maintain size and shapeand to keep the flowers coming. Avoid pruning in late fall or when cold weather approaches. Hard prun- ing delays bloom. Protect from hard frosts. Cucumber beetles love to eat the leaves.

In addition to the following, specialists offer a number of other species and hybrids.

iochroma cyaneum

Grows to 8 feet or more, with dull dark green leaves.

Stems and new shoots are covered with soft, grayish down.

Narrow trumpets are 23 inches long.

Blossom color of seedlings varies from blues through violets and deep reds to purplish rose and pink.

All have a metallic sheen.

Buy plants in bloom to get the color you want, or select named varieties.